Haere mai. Aratoi is your place to explore the art and history of the Wairarapa. Whether you're popping in for a quick look, settling in with a coffee, or bringing the whole whānau for the afternoon, you'll find everything you need to plan your visit below: opening hours, accessibility information, entry fees and answers to common questions.
Entry & Access / Utu Tomokanga
Aratoi is the Wairarapa’s museum of art and history — a place where our community comes together, our artists find their audience, and our taonga are protected for generations to come.
From 30 June 2026, we have introduced a modest entry fee to help build a sustainable future for Aratoi: $2 for Masterton residents, and $5 for all other visitors. It is FREE for Friends of Aratoi members and all children aged 16 and under.
Eftpos and contactless payments are accepted at the front desk. Koha is always warmly welcomed.
Why we’ve introduced an entry fee
Like many regional museums and galleries, Aratoi faces real funding pressures. The entry fee is not about profit — it is about ensuring Aratoi has a sustainable future. Every dollar goes directly to our exhibitions, our collections, and the programmes that serve this community. We are grateful for your support.
Opening Hours
Aratoi is open Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 3pm. We are closed on Mondays. These revised hours are part of our commitment to operating sustainably, ensuring we can continue to deliver exhibitions, care for our collections, and serve our community into the future.
Become a Friend of Aratoi
Friends of Aratoi members enjoy free entry with every visit, invitations to exclusive previews and events, and the satisfaction of knowing they are helping protect something truly special.
Membership starts from $45 per year. Find out more or join online here or ask at our front desk.
Group & School Visits
Group bookings and school visits are handled by our team and may have different entry arrangements. Please contact us at [email protected] for group visits, [email protected] for Schools visits, or 06 370 0001 to discuss your visit.
Opening hours
- Tuesday – Sunday: 10:00am – 3:00pm
- Monday: Closed
Closed for public holidays
Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year's Day, Good Friday, Anzac Day
Entry fees
- Masterton residents: $2
- All other visitors: $5
- Children 16 and under: Free
- Friends of Aratoi: Free
Accessibility
We want everyone to feel welcome at Aratoi. If there's anything we can do to make your visit easier, please get in touch before you come.
- Step-free main entrance
- All public galleries on one level, accessible by wheelchair, walker or mobility scooter
- Accessible toilet with handrails and baby-change facilities
- Mobility parking nearby on Bruce Street and Dixon Street
- NZ Sign Language tours by arrangement (please give us two weeks' notice)
- Assistance dogs warmly welcomed
To talk through your visit in advance, call us on 06 370 0001 or email [email protected].
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to book a ticket in advance?
No, just turn up. Tickets are sold at the front desk when you arrive, and exhibitions don't require a booking. Pre‑booking is only needed for guided group tours and school visits.
Is there parking?
Free street parking is usually available on Bruce Street and Dixon Street, with mobility parking spaces close to the entrance.
How long should I allow for a visit?
Most visitors spend between 45 minutes and 1.5 hours with us, depending on how many exhibitions are open and whether you stop for a coffee.
Can I take photos?
Yes, personal photography (without flash) is welcome in most exhibitions. Some loaned works or touring exhibitions have copyright restrictions — these are clearly signposted. Please ask staff if you're not sure.
Is there a café on site?
Yes, Entice café serves coffee, cabinet food and light lunches during opening hours. You're welcome to visit the café without going through the galleries.
Do you have a gift shop?
Yes. Our shop stocks publications, prints, cards and works by local Wairarapa artists and makers. Friends of Aratoi receive a 10% discount.
What are your opening hours?
Aratoi is open Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 3pm. We are closed on Mondays.
How do I prove I’m a local resident?
We operate on a trust basis — simply let our team know you’re from Masterton.
Can I pay by card?
Yes — we accept eftpos and contactless payments.
Is it free when the Main Gallery is closed?
Yes — entry is always free when the Main Gallery is closed for exhibition changeover. We’ll let you know in advance via our website and social media.
Are events and openings affected?
No. Entry to openings, ticketed events, and Friends events is managed separately.
I have more questions!
We’d love to hear from you. Contact us at [email protected], 06 370 0001, or stop in and chat with our team.